By Johnson Kanyesige
The Uganda Aids Commission has warned about the likelihood of increased HIV/AIDs infections in the oil-rich city Hoima City, as Uganda moves towards commercialization of its oil and gas.
The warning has been sounded by Dr. Nelson Musoba, the Commission’s Director General while speaking to journalists at Parliament, after his meeting with legislators on the Committee on Commissions, Statutory Authorities and State Enterprises (COSASE).
Dr. Musoba noted that prevalence rates are usually determined by activities taking place in different regions and with the highly anticipated commercial oil production in Hoima City, many workers will leave their spouses home and interact with people whose HIV status they are not aware of, thus increasing their risk of being infected with the virus.
“In Hoima, with the anticipated commencement of oil production in the City, many workers will leave their spouses home to participate in activities in the oil sector, which would likely increase their risk of contracting through casual sex. So the government must brace for this”, Dr. Musoba said.
According to Uganda Aids Commission, currently, Fort Portal City has the highest HIV prevalence based on 2023 data, followed by Mbarara City, and the Northern corridor especially along the highways.
Dr. Musoba also raised concern about the high HIV prevalence rate amongst young people and older persons between the age of 40-50 years, attributing the trend to the cross generational sex which puts the girl child at high risk of infection due to low bargaining power on ensuring the practice of safe sex.
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